So to Northampton we head, for a rare foray into the Midlands, to one of the largest towns in England, that was once the capital of England. Whilst that accolade may have been lost 900 years ago, it’s still widely regarded as the footwear capital of the country, where 200 years ago it was reportedly home to almost 2,000 shoemakers… that’s 1 for every 100 people (cobblers!) We’re here, and furnished with such fascinating factoids, thanks to an invitation from avid readers Bob and Hilary.
It’s a misty morning, and following a wet week we’re to start on the back 9, which makes for a tough initial stretch, with a tricky par 4 followed by 2 par 5s as an opening trio. Thanks to being hosted by locals, we’re given the inside track on each hole, and regaled with stories such as the tale of the tree on the 10th (pictured), that came back from the dead following a storm that lifted the roots and provided a life saving oxygen boost.
The club was founded in 1893, but relocated to its current home in Harlestone just under a century later, in the former grounds of the Althorp Estate, once home to the Spencer Family and the late Princess Diana. Indeed, one can rent out their ancestral home for the weekend for easy access to the course. It sits in 500 acres, sleeps 72, has 33 bathrooms, and costs ‘tens of thousands of pounds, per night’… though there’s no surcharge for bringing one’s own drinks!
Our opening 9 includes 2 tee shots over water, with the 16th across marshland and lake to a narrow two tier green cut into the hillside opposite. Then there’s the 18th, that invites a drive back across the lake whilst avoiding the ha-ha in front of the clubhouse, that’s no laughing matter. Winter tees are in use, which is understandable, and the visitor fees adjusted accordingly. The greens are in remarkable condition, with a regular injection of sand seemingly at least in part to thank.
Onto the front 9 then, with a blind tee shot to start, over the horizon and into the valley, where the green is guarded by a meandering stream. There’s more water to contend with on the 2nd, in a sequence of holes that takes in beautiful mature woodland. The 8th deserves particular mention, as a dogleg left around (or if you’re brave or talented, over) the apex of trees, and down a hill to the pretty tree-fringed green far below.
Post-round, and the clubhouse – fashioned in local sandstone – is home to a well stocked pro shop, and a bar and restaurant that offers up delicious and very reasonably priced fayre. It also boasts a huge panoramic balcony, with superb views across the practice area, ornamental lake and those navigating it en-route to the 18th green, as the perfect backdrop to toast a thoroughly enjoyable day in Northampton.
Key Info
Holes: 18
Par: White / Yellow: 72. Red: 73
Yards: White: 6,566. Yellow: 6,351. Red: 5,669
Slope: White: 133. Yellow: 127. Red: 132
Visitor Green Fees: From £20 (member’s guest / midweek) to £65 (weekend visitor)
Website: http://www.northamptongolfclub.co.uk
Location
Prices correct at time of writing (October 2023).
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